Director's Testimony
M A Nazir
As the Director of R-YOUTH CIC, my journey to this position has been anything but conventional. I left school without any GCSE qualifications, struggling not only with the pressures of education but also with dyslexia—a challenge that made learning feel like an uphill battle. Adding to these challenges, I found myself entangled in the criminal justice system, facing consequences that seemed to limit my future even further. However, through perseverance, support, and discovering my own path, I was able to turn my life around and build a better future.
These personal experiences have given me a deep understanding of the barriers many young people face today, particularly those who struggle with learning differences or who have had encounters with the criminal justice system. I know what it feels like to be overlooked by a system that doesn’t always recognize different learning needs or the potential for change. It’s this understanding that drives my passion for the work we do at R-YOUTH CIC.
Despite the challenges I faced, I was able to break free from my past and go on to become a lecturer at a college, where I found fulfillment in supporting others who, like me, struggled in traditional educational settings. This role allowed me to see the incredible potential that exists in every young person, even those who may have made mistakes along the way. At the same time, I began working as a youth worker, providing direct support to young people and helping them build the confidence, resilience, and skills they need to succeed.
These experiences inspired me to establish R-YOUTH CIC, an organization dedicated to offering the kind of support and opportunities I wish had been available to me when I was younger. Our mission is to build a stronger future for youth through multi-sport activities and educational pathways. We are committed to creating alternative routes into education, including vocational training courses, apprenticeships, and accredited qualifications, so that every young person, regardless of their challenges, has the chance to thrive.
Our programs are designed not only to develop practical skills but also to foster teamwork, confidence, and resilience—qualities that are essential for personal growth and professional success. When needed, we also adopt a multi-agency approach to ensure that our participants receive comprehensive support tailored to their unique needs.
Reflecting on my journey—from struggling with dyslexia and navigating the criminal justice system to becoming a lecturer and youth worker—I see how each step has prepared me to lead R-YOUTH CIC. My story is proof that with the right support, no obstacle is insurmountable. I am deeply committed to helping young people find their own paths to success, just as I found mine.
I am a firm believer that together, we all have a part in building brighter futures for the present and next generation.
L. Ball
I have discovered a passion as an advocate for young people, being ambitious to re-connect young people to education with the support to ensure they receive the education, respect, and experience they are entitled to.
As a young person I found learning challenging. Not being able to read or write until the age of 8, being overlooked by most teachers. I am aware now that I am dyslexic however, in my younger days this was not a condition recognised nor encouraged to seek a diagnosis for. Not having my barriers recognised nor supported made my learning journey harder than what it should have been.
My late development in education was mirrored in my maturity, being considered as a vulnerable young person. As a vulnerable young person, I experienced exploitation, abuse and assault.
Regardless of the challenges and delays as a young person I have since achieved a variety of qualifications including my Certificate in Education and Training and award in Leadership for Quality.
All my experiences have contributed to who I am and what I stand for today, being empathetic and conscious of the barriers young people face. I am eager and excited to be supporting R-YOUTH CIC, it being a great opportunity to support young people to embrace, challenge, develop, and commit to themselves and their futures.
S Bi
I bring over 20 years of experience working within the community, supporting families and working one-on-one with children. Alongside my professional commitments, I’ve raised two boys while balancing the challenges of motherhood and managing a workload. These personal experiences have given me invaluable insight into the needs of young people and the importance of being a strong, positive role model.
Growing up, I faced my own struggles, which at times led me to anti-social behavior (ASB). Reflecting on those choices has given me a unique perspective and a deeper understanding of the challenges that young people face today. I am committed to using my journey as a way to inspire and support young people to make better choices, helping them avoid the pitfalls I once experienced.
I also actively participate in my children’s sports activities, including football clubs, and regularly facilitate weekend activities for local young people. My passion is rooted in creating new opportunities through education and fostering positive change in youth.
Our mission is to provide a safe, supportive environment where young people can learn, grow, and enjoy themselves. We believe every child matters, and we strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we work with. By instilling confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose, we aim to empower each young person to reach their full potential.